Origin of deserving

Related forms

Definition for deserving (2 of 2)

deserve

[ dih-zurv ]

/ dɪˈzɜrv /

verb (used with object),de·served,de·serv·ing.

to merit, be qualified for, or have a claim to (reward, assistance, punishment, etc.) because of actions, qualities, or situation: to deserve exile; to deserve charity; a theory that deserves consideration.

verb (used without object),de·served,de·serv·ing.

to be worthy of, qualified for, or have a claim to reward, punishment, recompense, etc.: to reward him as he deserves; an idea deserving of study.

Origin of deserve

1250–1300;Middle Englishdeserven < Anglo-French,Old Frenchdeservir,Latindēservīre to devote oneself to the service of, equivalent to dē-de- + servīre to serve